Eighteen Washington University scientists are more than leaders in their respective fields. They are among the best and brightest scientific minds of our time, according to Thomson Reuters’ ScienceWatch 2014 (pdf).

The annual report features a “who’s who and what’s what of scientific research.” The scientists highlighted are those who have published research that is most frequently cited by their peers.

The report is based on two separate analyses. The first spotlights emerging trends in science and the innovators behind them: a select subset of 17 scientists around the globe who published the greatest number of hot papers in 2012 and 2013. Hot papers are those that make up the top 0.1 percent of citations, an indicator of groundbreaking work with widespread influence.

Named in the hot category are four scientists at The Genome Institute: Richard K. Wilson, PhD; Elaine Mardis, PhD; Li Ding, PhD; and Robert Fulton. Their highly cited papers examine the genomic underpinnings of leukemia as well as cancers of the brain, breast and retina.

The second analysis assessed papers published in 21 broad fields of study, tracking scientists whose articles ranked among the top 1 percent of the most highly cited from 2002-12. Wilson and Mardis were among those listed in this index, along with 16 other Washington University scientists.

Roll over images for more on the researchers.

Hot researchers

These scientists have multiple hot papers that rank among the top 0.1 percent of the most frequently cited.

Richard K. Wilson, PhDClinical Medicine and Genomics

Elaine R. Mardis, PhDClinical Medicine and Genomics

Robert FultonGenomics

Li Ding, PhDGenomics

Highly cited

These researchers have papers that rank among the top 1 percent of the most frequently cited.

Consistently ranked a top medical school for research, Washington University School of Medicine is also a catalyst in the St. Louis biotech and startup scene. Our community includes recognized innovators in science, medical education, health care policy and global health. We treat our patients and train new leaders in medicine at Barnes-Jewish and St. Louis Children's hospitals, both ranked among the nation’s best hospitals and recognized for excellence in care.